Topical systems and methods for treating sexual dysfunction

ABSTRACT

The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for topical or transdermal delivery, and treatment of sexual dysfunction. The compositions can be used in a variety of applications, including treating erectile dysfunction or sexual dysfunction. In some cases, the composition may include nitric oxide and/or peptides. The nitric oxide and/or peptide may be present within a first phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, the lecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other vesicles containing nitric oxide, peptides, or both. The composition can take the form of a gel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc., that can be rubbed or sprayed onto the skin, e.g., onto the penis, vulva, or other suitable portion of the skin. The composition can also be applied to a mucosal surface in some instances. Other aspects of the present invention are generally directed to methods of making or using such compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kits including such compositions, or the like.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/801,543, filed Mar. 13, 2013, entitled “Topical Systems and Methodsfor Treating Sexual Dysfunction,” which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety for all purposes.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods fortransdermal delivery, and treatment of sexual dysfunction.

BACKGROUND

Topical drug delivery systems are known. These systems deliver drugs orother therapeutic agents, or other desired substances topically ortransdermally, and may be designed to act locally at the point ofapplication, or to act systemically once entering the body's bloodcirculation. In these systems, delivery may be achieved by techniquessuch as direct topical application of a substance or drug in the form ofan ointment or the like, or by adhesion of a patch with a reservoir orthe like that holds the drug (or other substance) and releases it to theskin in a time-controlled fashion.

Topical delivery systems for substances such as peptides, drugs, painrelieving compounds, vitamins, and skin improving compounds have been inuse for a number of years. Transdermal delivery systems using creamshave been developed for use with analgesics and skin refining compounds.However, these delivery systems do not work effectively for allcompounds. Further, topical delivery systems for providing therapeuticagents to treat sexual dysfunction are needed.

SUMMARY

The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods fortransdermal delivery, including treatment of erectile dysfunction orsexual dysfunction. The subject matter of the present inventioninvolves, in some cases, interrelated products, alternative solutions toa particular problem, and/or a plurality of different uses of one ormore systems and/or articles.

The invention, in one aspect, is generally directed to a methodcomprising administering, to a subject having or at risk of sexualdysfunction, a composition comprising an effective amount of a peptideand nitric oxide to treat or prevent the sexual dysfunction, and acarrier having a phosphatidylcholine component entrapping the nitricoxide.

In another aspect, the present invention is generally directed to amethod comprising administering, to a subject having or at risk ofsexual dysfunction, a composition comprising an emulsion comprising afirst phase comprising MSH or an MSH agonist, nitric oxide, andlecithin, and a second phase comprising an emulsifier. In one set ofembodiments, the lecithin is present at least about 0.25% by weight ofthe composition. In some embodiments, the first phase comprises no morethan about 250 ppm of water by weight of the composition.

In another aspect, the present invention encompasses methods of makingone or more of the embodiments described herein, for example, acomposition comprising nitric oxide. In still another aspect, thepresent invention encompasses methods of using one or more of theembodiments described herein, for example, a composition comprisingnitric oxide.

Other advantages and novel features of the present invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description of various non-limitingembodiments of the invention. In cases where the present specificationand a document incorporated by reference include conflicting and/orinconsistent disclosure, the present specification shall control. If twoor more documents incorporated by reference include conflicting and/orinconsistent disclosure with respect to each other, then the documenthaving the later effective date shall control.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 shows results from the laser Doppler assay in four human studyparticipants.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods fortopical or transdermal delivery, and treatment of sexual dysfunction.The compositions can be used in a variety of applications, includingtreating erectile dysfunction or sexual dysfunction. In some cases, thecomposition may include nitric oxide and/or peptides. The nitric oxideand/or peptide may be present within a first phase comprising alecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine. In certain embodiments, thelecithin is present in liposomes, micelles, or other vesicles containingnitric oxide, peptides, or both. The composition can take the form of agel, a cream, a lotion, an ointment, a solution, a solid “stick,” etc.,that can be rubbed or sprayed onto the skin, e.g., onto the penis,vulva, or other suitable portion of the skin. The composition can alsobe applied to a mucosal surface in some instances. Other aspects of thepresent invention are generally directed to methods of making or usingsuch compositions, methods of promoting such compositions, kitsincluding such compositions, or the like.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a composition asdescribed herein is used to treat sexual dysfunction or other conditionssuch as those described herein. To “treat” a disorder means to reduce oreliminate a sign or symptom of the disorder, to stabilize the disorder,and/or to reduce or slow further progression of the disorder. Thus, inone set of embodiments, the application of nitric oxide and/or peptide,e.g., in a nitric oxide and/or peptide matrix, to the skin of a subjectsuffering from sexual dysfunction may result in clinical improvement. Insome cases, the delivery of nitric oxide and/or peptides to the skin,e.g., to the epidermis and/or dermis, may be achieved at a controlledrate and/or concentration. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, itis believed that nitric oxide may increase vasodilation and/or promotebeneficial neural signaling.

According to another aspect, peptides are provided which are useful astherapeutic agents, e.g., as described herein. In some aspects,compositions comprising peptides provided herein are effective intreating a muscular, neuromuscular, or neurological disease or disorder,alone or in combination, e.g., in a common composition with, nitricoxide. In some cases, the peptide may include two or more amino acidslinked by the carboxyl group of one amino acid to the amino group ofanother, e.g. a peptide linkage, to form an amino acid sequence. It iscontemplated that peptides may be purified and/or isolated from naturalsources or prepared by recombinant or synthetic methods. Amino acidsequences may be encoded by naturally or non-naturally occurring nucleicacid sequences or synthesized by recombinant nucleic acid sequences orartificially synthesized. A peptide may be a linear peptide or acyclopeptide, e.g. cyclic including bicyclic. In some cases, a “peptide”may be interchangeably referred to as a “therapeutic peptide.” In somecases, the peptide is a “pseudo-peptide” or a “peptidomimetic,” whichare compounds designed to functionally mimic a peptide. Non-limitingexamples of peptides include thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) ormelanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH).

According to certain embodiments, compositions comprisingmelanocyte-stimulating hormones (e.g. α-MSH, β-MSH, and γ-MSH,collectively “MSH”), or analogs thereof, provided herein are effectivein treating sexual dysfunction, alone or in combination, e.g. in acommon composition with, nitric oxide. Without wishing to be bound byany particular theory, it is believed that MSH (e.g. α-MSH), signalsthrough melanocortin receptors in the hypothalamus to stimulate theperipheral production of nitric oxide from nerve endings in the corporacavernosa, which promotes penile erection in males. In females (withoutbeing bound by any theory), it is believed that MSH (e.g. α-MSH)stimulates brain regions involved in the regulation of motivation,arousal, and the appetitive components of sexual behavior (e.g. thenucleus accumbens, medial preoptic area, ventral tegmental area, arcuatenucleus and the medial and basolateral amygdala).

Thus, in some aspects, compositions of the present invention areeffective in promoting subjective arousal (e.g. feelings of arousal,e.g. excitement and/or pleasure) as well as genital arousal (e.g.swelling of the vulva or vaginal lubrication) in females. The beneficialeffects of nitric oxide discussed herein may work synergistically, oradditively, with MSH, e.g. by promoting increased nitric oxide and bloodflow to the genitals. In some aspects, the MSH used in a compositioncomprising MSH is derived from a pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) precursorpoplypeptide. In some aspects, the MSH used in a composition comprisingMSH is synthesized. Non-limiting examples of MSH contemplated by thepresent invention include α-MSH, β-MSH, γ-MSH, afamelanotide(melanotan-1), bremelanotide, melanotan II, as well as salts and analogsof any of the foregoing.

In still another embodiment, nitric oxide and/or peptide containingcompositions described herein further comprise one or more therapeuticagents effective in treating sexual dysfunction. Non-limiting examplesof such agents include alprostadil, sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil,apomorphine, and/or testosterone.

In one set of embodiments, application of nitric oxide and/or peptides,e.g., in a penetrating matrix gel delivering the active nitric oxideand/or peptide, may be applied to the skin of a subject, e.g., onehaving or at risk of a disease, condition, or need described herein.Additionally, in some embodiments, the composition may be applied inconjunction with other types of treatments to a subject, e.g., to theskin of a subject, for treatment of any of the diseases, conditions, orneeds described herein. These may be occur, e.g., simultaneously orsequentially, in various embodiments.

In one aspect, the present invention is useful for treating sexualdysfunction, e.g. erectile dysfunction (ED) or female sexual arousaldisorder (FSAD). For example, a composition such as is described hereincan be applied to the skin of a subject on or near a male or femalegenital region to treat sexual dysfunction and/or to enhance sexualperformance or experience. In some embodiments, the subject may be ahuman. The subject may be male or female. In some embodiments, acomposition may be applied to the perineal region (e.g., penis), to thevulva, etc., to release nitric oxide and/or peptides to the skin andunderlying tissue directly upon topical administration of thecomposition to the subject. For example, certain compositions of theinvention may be applied to the genital perineal region or penis orportion thereof of a male subject to treat erectile dysfunction, to thevulva of a female subject to treat sexual dysfunction, e.g. FSAD (or toany other portion at or near the genital perineal region in male orfemale subjects).

In some aspects, sexual dysfunction or sexual malfunction refers to adifficulty experienced by a subject, male or female, or a couple, duringany stage of a sexual activity, including e.g. desire, preference,arousal, orgasm, etc. Thus in some aspects, certain compositions of thepresent invention may be used to treat sexual dysfunction, e.g. byenhancing desire, preference, arousal, orgasm, etc. In some aspects,erectile dysfunction (ED) is sexual dysfunction characterized by theinability to develop or maintain an erection of the penis. Thus in someaspects, certain compositions of the present invention are used to treatED.

In some aspects, female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD) is sexualdysfunction characterized by a persistent or recurrent inability toattain sexual arousal or to maintain arousal until the completion of asexual activity, and may also be characterized by an inadequatelubrication-swelling response normally present during arousal and sexualactivity. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is contemplated,that in some aspects, sexual dysfunction, either in a male or femalesubject, is caused, in part, by a decrease in blood flow to thegenitals. Thus in some aspects, certain compositions of the presentinvention are used to treat sexual dysfunction by increasing blood flowto the genitals of a subject. In males, increasing blood flow to thegenitals is effective in e.g., promoting the ability to develop ormaintain an erection. In females, increasing blood flow to the genitalsis effective in e.g., in promoting female arousal, e.g. genital arousal(e.g. swelling of the vulva or vaginal lubrication).

In some aspects, the compositions described herein are useful forenhancing sexual activity, or increasing the pleasure of sexualactivity, in subjects that do not have sexual dysfunction per se. Thusin some aspects, increased blood flow to certain areas of the subject,e.g. the genitals, mediated by the effects of nitric oxide, is effectivein treating sexual dysfunction.

Accordingly, in some cases, the compositions and methods describedherein are used to stimulate the absorption of nitric oxide and/orpeptide into cells and tissues, and/or promote vasodilation of skintissues. Certain aspects of the present invention thus permit treatmentor prevention of various symptoms such as erectile dysfunction andfemale sexual arousal disorder.

In certain embodiments of the present invention, nitric oxide gas itselfis entrapped or contained within various compositions as discussedherein, for example, in liquid crystal multilamellarphosphatidylcholine. In addition, in certain embodiments as discussedbelow, the composition may be stable and can be stored for periods oftime with little or no loss or reaction of the nitric oxide containedtherein.

In some embodiments, the nitric oxide and/or the peptide within thecomposition is stable at room temperature, and may remain active forextended periods of time, for example, for at least 1 year, at least 2years, at least 3 years, at least 4 years, etc. The nitric oxide and thepeptide may be released, for example, when the composition is exposed toan aqueous environment, e.g., within the body. Without wishing to bebound by any theory, it is believed that when the composition is appliedto the skin, the liquid crystal structure collapses, delivering nitricoxide and/or the peptides to, e.g., a muscle or other desired area oftreatment. The concentration of the nitric oxide and the peptide insidethe liquid crystal matrix can be varied in terms of concentration. Thematrix also may act as a sustained release and delivery system in someembodiments. It is also believed that the liquid crystal is highlypenetrating, such that nitric oxide and the peptide can be delivered tothe epidermis, dermis and dermal vascular for systemic release as wellas to subcutaneous fat, at least under some conditions.

Since nitric oxide is an unstable and reactive gas, entrapment, storage,and release of nitric oxide requires careful formulation in someembodiments of the invention. For example, nitric oxide readily reactswith water to form nitrous acid (HNO₂), and thus, certain embodiments ofthe invention include compositions or phases that are substantially freeof water. As another example, in one set of embodiments, nitric oxideand/or peptides may be contained within a first phase comprising alecithin such as phosphatidylcholine, which may be present within asecond phase comprising an emulsifier, such as is discussed herein.Other components, for example, transdermal penetration enhancers,adjuvants, surfactants, lubricants, etc. can also be present in certaincases.

Thus, the compositions of the invention comprise, in certain aspects, aphase comprising phosphatidylcholine and/or other lecithins in whichnitric oxide and/or peptide is contained within or “trapped.” Thephosphatidylcholine or lecithin may be contained within a second phase,for example, comprising an emulsifier, which may cause thephosphatidylcholine or lecithin to form vesicles, e.g., micelles orliposomes. The phosphatidylcholine or lecithin composition can beunilamellar or multilamellar in some embodiments. In some instances, thepresence of the second phase causes the phosphatidylcholine or lecithinto form a liquid crystal arrangement.

The nitric oxide is typically gaseous, and may be present within thecomposition as small bubbles and/or bound to lecithins orphosphatidylcholines within the composition. For example, the nitricoxide may be bound to double bonds present in the lecithins orphosphatidylcholines. Phosphatidylcholine is believed to stabilizeand/or contain the nitric oxide and/or peptide. In some cases, stabilityof the composition can be achieved at room temperature (about 25° C.),and/or at other temperatures such as those described herein. Withoutwishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that thephosphatidylcholine adopts a liquid crystal structure under suchconditions, which can thereby contain the nitric oxide, e.g., as smallgaseous bubbles, and/or through binding with lecithins orphosphatidylcholines. Similarly (without wishing to be bound by anytheory), it is contemplated that peptides are also contained within thevesicular and/or liquid crystal structure of phosphatidylcholine orother carriers described herein. In some aspects, (without wishing to bebound by any theory) the peptide, depending on its hydrophobicity, maybe contained within phosphatidylcholine vesicular membrane, or may betightly associated with the inner or outer surface of the membrane.

Nitric oxide is typically reactive with water (e.g., forming nitrousacid), which contributes to its relatively short lifetime within thebody or within other aqueous environments. Accordingly, in certainembodiments of the invention, the composition, or at least a phase ofthe composition comprising the nitric oxide (and/or the second phase,and/or one or more materials used to prepare a nitric oxide composition,and/or a nitric oxide composition prepared as described herein), issubstantially free of water, e.g., comprising no more than about 10 wt%, no more than about 3 wt %, no more than about 1 wt %, no more thanabout 0.3 wt %, or no more than about 0.1 wt % water (i.e., relative tothe weight of the overall composition). The composition may also have nomore than about 1,000 ppm, no more than about 750 ppm, no more thanabout 500 ppm, no more than about 400 ppm, no more than about 300 ppm,no more than about 250 ppm, no more than about 200 ppm, no more thanabout 150 ppm, no more than about 100 ppm, no more than about 50 ppm, nomore than about 25 ppm, or no more than about 10 ppm of water. Incertain embodiments, no detectable water may be present in thecomposition, or at least within a phase of the composition comprisingthe nitric oxide. Any suitable technique can be used for determining theamount of water present in the composition, for example, Karl-Fishertitration. In some cases, the composition may also be free of anyliquids that typically contain water, e.g., physiological buffers, bodyfluids, saline, or the like.

Any suitable amount of nitric oxide may be present within a compositionprepared as described herein. For example, at least about 0.3 wt %, atleast about 0.5 wt %, at least about 0.7 wt %, at least about 1 wt %, atleast about 1.5 wt %, at least about 2 wt %, at least about 2.5 wt %, atleast about 3 wt %, at least about 5 wt % at least about 10 wt %, atleast about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, atleast about 50 wt %, at least about 60 wt %, at least about 70 wt %, atleast about 80 wt %, at least about 90 wt %, at least about 100 wt %, atleast about 110 wt %, or at least about 120 wt % of the composition canbe nitric oxide, where the basis of the weight percentage is the weightof the composition before nitric oxide is added. For example, the nitricoxide may be present at between 70 wt % and about 120 wt % of thecomposition.

In some embodiments, the nitric oxide may be present at a concentrationof at least about 400 mg/kg, at least about 450 mg/kg, at least about500 mg/kg, at least about 550 mg/kg, at least about 570 mg/kg, at leastabout 600 mg/kg, at least about 650 mg/kg, at least about 700 mg/kg, atleast about 750 mg/kg, at least about 800 mg/kg, at least about 850mg/kg, at least about 950 mg/kg, or at least about 1000 mg/kg of thecomposition. In certain cases, the nitric oxide may be present at aconcentration of no more than about 2000 mg/kg, no more than about 1500mg/kg, no more than about 1000 mg/kg, no more than about 960 mg/kg, nomore than about 900 mg/kg, no more than about 800 mg/kg, no more thanabout 700 mg/kg, or no more than about 600 mg/kg. For example, thenitric oxide may be present at a concentration of between about 570mg/kg and about 960 mg/kg.

In some embodiments, the nitric oxide is present at a concentration(e.g., on a per-mass basis) of at least about 100 ppm, at least about200 ppm, at least about 300 ppm, at least about 400 ppm, at least about500 ppm, at least about 600 ppm, at least about 700 ppm, at least about800 ppm, at least about 900 ppm, at least about 1000 ppm, at least about1100 ppm, at least about 1200 ppm, at least about 1300 ppm, at leastabout 1400 ppm, at least about 1500 ppm, at least about 1600 ppm, atleast about 1700 ppm, at least about 1800 ppm, at least about 1900 ppm,at least about 2000 ppm, at least about 2500 ppm, at least about 3000ppm, at least about 3500 ppm, at least about 4000 ppm, at least about4500 ppm, at least about 5000 ppm, at least about 6000 ppm, at leastabout 7000 ppm, at least about 8000 ppm, at least about 9000 ppm, or atleast about 10000 ppm of the composition. In other embodiments, thenitric oxide is present at a concentration of no more than about 11000ppm, no more than about 10000 ppm, no more than about 9000 ppm, no morethan about 8000 ppm, no more than about 7000 ppm, no more than about6000 ppm, no more than about 5000 ppm, no more than about 4500 ppm, nomore than about 4000 ppm, no more than about 3500 ppm, no more thanabout 3000 ppm, no more than about 2500 ppm, no more than about 2000ppm, no more than about 1900 ppm, no more than about 1800 ppm, no morethan about 1700 ppm, no more than about 1600 ppm, no more than about1500 ppm, no more than about 1400 ppm, no more than about 1300 ppm, nomore than about 1200 ppm, no more than about 1100 ppm, no more thanabout 1000 ppm, no more than about 900 ppm, no more than about 800 ppm,no more than about 700 ppm, no more than about 600 ppm, no more thanabout 500 ppm, no more than about 400 ppm, or no more than about 300 ppmof the composition. For example, in some embodiments, nitric oxide ispresent at a concentration of between about 400 and about 900 ppm. NOcontent can be measured by any suitable technique. For example, in someembodiments, NO content is measured using a nitric oxide biosensor(e.g., nitric oxide macrosensor with nitric oxide specific electrodefrom WPI Instruments). In some embodiments, NO content is measured by achange in weight in the composition after adding NO.

In some embodiments, nitric oxide and/or peptide is present within afirst phase comprising a lecithin, such as phosphatidylcholine.Phosphatidylcholine (herein abbreviated “PC”) is a basic component ofcell membrane bilayers and the main phospholipid circulating in theplasma of blood. Phosphatidylcholine typically has a phospholipidstructure with a choline head group and a glycerophosphoric acid tailgroup. The tail group can be saturated or unsaturated. More than onetail group may be present in the phosphatidylcholine in some cases, andthe tail groups may be the same or different. Specific non-limitingexamples of phosphatidylcholines that could be used include one or amixture of stearic, palmitic, margaric, and/or oleic acid diglycerideslinked to a choline ester head group.

Phosphatidylcholines are a member of a class of compounds calledlecithins. Typically, a lecithin is a composed of phosphoric acid,choline, fatty acids, glycerol, glycolipids, triglycerides, and/orphospholipids. In some cases, other lecithins may be used, in additionto or instead of a phosphatidylcholine. Non-limiting examples of otherlecithins include phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, orphosphatidic acid. Many commercial lecithin products are available, suchas, for example, Lecithol®, Vitellin®, Kelecin®, and Granulestin®.Lecithin is widely used in the food industry. In some embodiments,certain compositions of the invention can contain synthetic or naturallecithin, or mixtures thereof. Natural preparations are used in somecases because they exhibit desirable physical characteristics, and/ormay be economical or nontoxic. However, in other embodiments,non-natural preparations are used, or the composition can include bothnatural and non-natural preparations.

Any suitable amount of phosphatidylcholine or lecithin may be presentwithin the composition. For example, at least about 0.25 wt %, at leastabout 0.5 wt %, at least about 1 wt %, at least about 2 wt %, at leastabout 3 wt %, at least about 5 wt %, at least about 8 wt %, at leastabout 10 wt %, at least about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at leastabout 40 wt %, at least about 50 wt %, at least about 60 wt %, at leastabout 70 wt %, at least about 80 wt %, or at least about 90 wt % of theentire composition can be a phosphatidylcholine or a lecithin. In somecases, the phosphatidylcholine or lecithin may be present at aconcentration of no more than about 95 wt %, no more than about 90 wt %,no more than about 80 wt %, no more than about 70 wt %, no more thanabout 65 wt %, no more than about 60 wt %, no more than about 50 wt %,no more than about 40 wt %, no more than about 30 wt %, no more thanabout 20 wt %, or no more than about 10%. For instance, thephosphatidylcholine or lecithin may be present at between about 8 wt %and about 65 wt %, or between about 0 wt % and about 10 wt %, etc. Oneor more than one type of phosphatidylcholine or lecithin may be present.

Some delivery compositions of the present invention may containpolyenylphosphatidylcholine (herein abbreviated “PPC”). In some cases,PPC can be used to enhance epidermal penetration. The term“polyenylphosphatidylcholine,” as used herein, means anyphosphatidylcholine bearing two fatty acid moieties, wherein at leastone of the two fatty acids is an unsaturated fatty acid with at leasttwo double bonds in its structure, such as linoleic acid.

Certain types of soybean lecithin and soybean fractions, for example,can contain higher levels of polyenylphosphatidylcholine, withdilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine (18:2-18:2 phosphatidylcholine) as themost abundant phosphatidylcholine species therein, than conventionalfood grade lecithin. Such lecithins may be useful in formulating certaindelivery compositions. In some embodiments, conventional soybeanlecithin may be enriched with polyenylphosphatidylcholine, for instance,by adding soybean extracts containing high levels ofpolyenylphosphatidylcholine. As used herein, this type ofphosphatidylcholine is called “polyenylphosphatidylcholine-enriched”phosphatidylcholine (hereinafter referred to as PPC-enrichedphosphatidylcholine), even where the term encompasses lecithin obtainedfrom natural sources exhibiting polyenylphosphatidylcholine levelshigher than ordinary soybean varieties.

These products are commercially available, for example, from AmericanLecithin Company, Rhone-Poulenc and other lecithin vendors. AmericanLecithin Company markets its products with a “U” designation, indicatinghigh levels of unsaturation; Rhone-Poulenc's product is a soybeanextract containing about 42% dilinoleoylphosphatidylcholine and about24% palmitoyllinoleylphosphatidylcholine (16:0 to 18:2 of PC) as themajor phosphatidylcholine components. Another example of a suitablepolyenylphosphatidylcholine is NAT 8729 (also commercially availablefrom vendors such as Rhone-Poulenc and American Lecithin Company).

Any suitable amount of polyenylphosphatidylcholine may be present withinthe composition. For example, at least about 0.25 wt %, at least about0.5 wt %, at least about 1 wt %, at least about 2 wt %, at least about 3wt %, at least about 5 wt %, at least about 8 wt %, at least about 10 wt%, at least about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt%, at least about 50 wt %, at least about 60 wt %, at least about 70 wt%, at least about 80 wt %, or at least about 90 wt % of the compositioncan be polyenylphosphatidylcholine. In some cases, thepolyenylphosphatidylcholine may be present at a concentration of no morethan about 95 wt %, no more than about 90 wt %, no more than about 80 wt%, no more than about 70 wt %, no more than about 65 wt %, no more thanabout 60 wt %, no more than about 50 wt %, no more than about 40 wt %,no more than about 30 wt %, no more than about 20 wt %, or no more thanabout 10%. For instance, the polyenylphosphatidylcholine may be presentat between about 8 wt % and about 65 wt %. In some embodiments, at leastabout 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, at leastabout 50 wt %, at least about 60 wt %, at least about 70 wt %, at leastabout 80 wt %, at least about 90 wt %, or about 100 wt % of all of thephosphatidylcholine or lecithin in the composition ispolyenylphosphatidylcholine.

While not wishing to be bound to any theory, it is believed that thePPC-enriched phosphatidylcholine forms a bilayer enveloping nitric oxideand/or peptide (and in some embodiments, other adjunct ingredients, ifpresent) to create the composition. The PPC-enriched phosphatidylcholineis believed to contribute to the stability of the nitric oxide and/orpeptide, for example, by shielding the nitric oxide and/or peptide fromwater, and/or by enhancing its penetration into the skin or other are.

The first phase also comprises, in some embodiments of the invention, afatty acid ester. Non-limiting examples include ascorbate palmitate orisopropyl palmitate. In some cases, the fatty acid ester is used as apreservative or an antioxidant. The composition can include any suitableamount of fatty acid ester, for example, at least about 1 wt %, at leastabout 3 wt %, at least about 5 wt %, at least about 10 wt %, at leastabout 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, at leastabout 50 wt %, etc. In some cases, no more than about 60 wt %, no morethan about 50 wt %, no more than about 40 wt %, no more than about 30 wt%, no more than about 20 wt %, no more than about 18 wt %, no more thanabout 15 wt %, no more than about 12 wt %, or no more than about 10 wt %of the composition is fatty acid ester. For example, the composition maybe between about 0 wt % and about 10 wt % fatty acid ester. Thecomposition may include one or more than one fatty acid ester.

In certain embodiments, a composition such as those described herein canbe formulated to include a second phase. Typically, the second phase issubstantially immiscible with the first phase comprisingphosphatidylcholine or lecithin. Two phases that are substantiallyimmiscible are able to form discrete phases when exposed to each otherat ambient conditions (e.g., 25° C. and 1 atm) for extended periods oftime (e.g., at least about a day). The phases can be separateidentifiable phases (e.g., one may float above the other), or in somecases, the phases are intermingled, e.g., as in an emulsion. Thestability of the discrete phases may be kinetic and/or thermodynamic innature, in various embodiments.

In one set of embodiments, the second phase may comprise an emulsifierwhich causes the first phase comprising phosphatidylcholine or lecithinto form a liquid crystal, and/or vesicles such as micelles or liposomes.Typically, in a liquid crystal phase, vesicular structures such asmicelles, liposomes, hexagonal phases, or lipid bilayers can be formed.In some cases, multilamellar structures may be present within the liquidcrystal phase, although in other cases, only unilamellar structures maybe present. For example, in certain cases, the PPC-enrichedphosphatidylcholine can be loosely arranged in a multilamellar fashion,with nitric oxide and/or peptides and optional adjunct ingredients beingbonded or otherwise entrapped or contained within the lipid bilayersformed therein. In some cases, the first phase (e.g., comprisingPPC-enriched phosphatidylcholine) and the second phase can form astructure such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,182,956 to Perricone,et al. This is believed (without wishing to be bound by any theory) toform a loosely arranged, yet stable, PPC-enrichedphosphatidylcholine-drug complex that may allow penetration and deliveryof nitric oxide and/or peptides and optional adjunct ingredients to theskin, e.g., to the dermal vasculature, or to a mucosal surface.

In one set of embodiments, the second phase comprises an emulsifier. Theemulsifier, in one embodiment, is a substance that is able to stabilizean emulsion by increasing its kinetic stability. The emulsifier may alsobe chosen in some cases to be relatively inert or non-toxic relative tothe skin or to a mucosal surface.

In some embodiments, the second phase may comprise a polyglycol. Thepolyglycol may include a polyhydric alcohol of a monomeric glycol suchas polyethylene glycol (PEG) and/or polypropylene glycol (PPG). Forexample, the PEG or PPG may be PEG or PPG 200, 300, 400, 600, 1,000,1,450, 3,350, 4,000, 6,000, 8,000, and 20,000, where the numberindicates the approximate average molecular weight of the PEG or PPG. Asis understood by those of ordinary skill in the art, a polyglycolcomposition often will comprise a range of molecular weights, althoughthe approximate average molecular weight is used to identify the typepolyglycol. More than one PEG and/or PPG can also be present in certaininstances.

The second phase may comprise a surfactant in some embodiments.Non-limiting examples of surfactants include a siloxylated polyethercomprising dimethyl, methyl(propylpolyethylene oxide propylene oxide,acetate) siloxane commercially available from vendors such as DowCorning (Dow Corning 190 surfactant). Other examples of materials thatcan be used as (or within) the second phase include, but are not limitedto, 1,2-propanediol, or silicone fluids containing low viscositypolydimethylsiloxane polymers, methylparaben (p-hydroxy benzoic acidmethyl ester) commercially available from vendors such as Dow Corning(Dow Corning 200 silicone fluid). Still other examples include varioussiloxane or silicone compounds, e.g., hexamethyldisiloxane,amodimethicone, phenyltrimethicone, etc.

Additionally, purified water may be added to the second phase in someembodiments, although in other cases, little or no water is present inthe second phase. For example, the first phase, the second phase, cancontain less than 10%, less than 5%, less than 2%, less than 1%, or lessthat 0.05% (e.g., wt %) of water relative to the weight of therespective phase or of the entire composition. In some cases, the secondphase may also comprise adjunct ingredients such as those describedherein.

The second phase may include any one, or more than one, of the materialsdescribed above. In addition, any suitable amount of second phase can beused in accordance with various embodiments of the invention. Forexample, the second phase may be present at at least about 10 wt %, atleast about 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, atleast about 50 wt %, at least about 60 wt %, at least about 70 wt %, atleast about 80 wt %, or at least about 90 wt % of the composition. Insome cases, the ratio of the first phase (e.g., comprisingphosphatidylcholine or lecithin) to the second phase can be at leastabout 1:3, at least about 1:2, at least about 1:1, at least about 2:1,at least about 3:1, or at least about 4:1, etc.

In certain embodiments, a composition such as those described herein,e.g., those containing a peptide, and in some aspects also containingnitric oxide, may comprise a polyglycol. The polyglycol may include apolyhydric alcohol of a monomeric glycol such as polyethylene glycol(PEG) and/or polypropylene glycol (PPG). For example, the PEG or PPG maybe PEG or PPG 200, 300, 400, 600, 1,000, 1,450, 3,350, 4,000, 6,000,8,000, and 20,000, where the number indicates the approximate averagemolecular weight of the PEG or PPG. As is understood by those ofordinary skill in the art, a polyglycol composition often will comprisea range of molecular weights, although the approximate average molecularweight is used to identify the type polyglycol.

More than one PEG and/or PPG can also be present in certain instances.The composition can include any suitable amount of polyglycol, forexample, at least about 1 wt %, at least about 3 wt %, at least about 5wt %, at least about 10 wt %, at least about 20 wt %, at least about 30wt %, at least about 40 wt %, at least about 50 wt %, etc. In somecases, no more than about 60 wt %, no more than about 50 wt %, no morethan about 40 wt %, no more than about 30 wt %, no more than about 20 wt%, no more than about 18 wt %, no more than about 15 wt %, no more thanabout 12 wt %, or no more than about 10 wt % of the composition ispolyglycol. For example, the composition may be between about 0 wt % andabout 10 wt % polyglycol. The composition may include one or more thanone type of polyglycol.

In some aspects, the formulation comprises a phosphatidylcholine, e.g.,any of those described herein (Phospholipon-90G (American LecithinCompany)). The composition can include any suitable amount ofphosphatidylcholine, for example, at least about 1 wt %, at least about3 wt %, at least about 5 wt %, at least about 10 wt %, at least about 20wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, at least about 50wt %, at least about 60 wt %, at least about 70 wt %, at least about 80wt %, at least about 90 wt % etc. In some cases, no more than about 90wt %, no more than about 80 wt %, no more than about 70 wt %, no morethan about 60 wt %, no more than about 50 wt %, no more than about 40 wt%, no more than about 30 wt %, no more than about 20 wt %, no more thanabout 10 wt %, or no more than about 5 wt % of the composition isphosphatidylcholine. For example, the composition may be between about 0wt % and about 10 wt % surfactant. The composition may include one ormore than one phosphatidylcholine. Other examples of materials that canbe used as (or within) the formulation include, but are not limited to,benzyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl palmitate (IPP), propanediol,and caprylic/capric triglycerides.

Any suitable amount of peptide may be present within a compositionprepared as described herein. For example, the peptide may be present ata concentration, with respect to the volume of carrier (in cubiccentimeters) containing the peptide, of at least about 0.01 mg/cc, atleast about 0.02 mg/cc, at least about 0.03 mg/cc, at least about 0.04mg/cc, at least about 0.05 mc/cc, at least about 0.06 mg/cc, at leastabout 0.07 mg/cc, at least about 0.08 mg/cc, at least about 0.09 mg/cc,at least about 0.10 mg/cc, at least about 0.20 mg/cc, at least about0.30 mg/cc, at least about 0.40 mg/cc, at least about 0.50 mg/cc, atleast about 0.60 mg/cc, at least about 0.70 mg/cc, at least about 0.80mg/cc, at least about 0.90 mg/cc, at least about 1.0 mg/cc, at leastabout 1.5 mg/cc, at least about 2.0 mg/cc, at least about 2.5 mg/cc, atleast about 3.0 mg/cc, at least about 3.5 mg/cc, at least about 4.0mg/cc, at least about 4.5 mg/cc, at least about 5.0 mg/cc, at leastabout 5.5 mg/cc, at least about 6.0 mg/cc, at least about 6.5 mg/cc, atleast about 7.0 mg/cc, at least about 7.5 mg/cc, at least about 8.0mg/cc, at least about 8.5 mg/cc, at least about 9.0 mg/cc, at leastabout 9.5 mg/cc, at least about 10.0 mg/cc, at least about 15.0 mg/cc,at least about 20.0 mg/cc, at least about 25.0 mg/cc, at least about30.0 mg/cc, at least about 35.0 mg/cc, at least about 40.0 mg/cc, atleast about 45.0 mg/cc, at least about 50.0 mg/cc, at least about 60.0mg/cc, at least about 70.0 mg/cc, at least about 80.0 mg/cc, at leastabout 90.0 mg/cc, at least about 100 mg/cc, at least about 125 mg/cc, atleast about 150 mg/cc, at least about 175 mg/cc, at least about 200mg/cc, at least about 250 mg/cc, at least about 300 mg/cc, at leastabout 400 mg/cc, at least about 500 mg/cc, at least about 750 mg/cc, orat least about 1000 mg/cc.

In certain cases, the peptide may be present at a concentration of nomore than about 1500 mg/cc, no more than about 1000 mg/cc, no more thanabout 800 mg/cc, no more than about 600 mg/cc, no more than about 400mg/cc, no more than about 200 mg/cc, no more than about 100 mg/cc, nomore than about 75 mg/cc, no more than about 50 mg/cc, no more thanabout 25 mg/cc, no more than about 20 mg/cc, no more than about 15mg/cc, no more than about 12.5 mg/cc, no more than about 10.0 mg/cc, nomore than about 9.0 mg/cc, no more than about 8.0 mg/cc, no more thanabout 7.0 mg/cc, no more than about 6.0 mg/cc, no more than about 5.5mg/cc, no more than about 5.0, no more than about 4.5 mg/cc, no morethan about 4.0 mg/cc, no more than about 3.5 mg/cc, no more than about3.0 mg/cc, no more than about 2.5 mg/cc, no more than about 2.0 mg/cc,no more than about 1.5 mg/cc, no more than about 1.0 mg/cc, no more thanabout 0.5 mg/cc, no more than about 0.1 mg/cc, or no more than about0.01 mg/cc. For example, the peptide may be present at a concentrationof between about 0.5 mg/cc and about 50.0 mg/cc. In some embodiments,the composition also comprises a suitable amount of nitric oxide, e.g.,as provided herein.

In some embodiments, the peptide may be added to a composition during orafter the formulation of any phase or composition as described herein,e.g., by routine methods known in the art. For example, the peptide maybe added to any phase of a formulation or composition, or after anyformulation or composition described herein is made. In some cases, forexample, the peptide may be added before or after nitric oxide is addedto the mixture, or before or after the first and second phases are mixedtogether. The peptide may be added to either the first phase or thesecond phase, depending on the type of peptide. In some cases, thepeptide may be added after the first phase or the second phase afteremulsification. The peptide may be present in a hydrophilic portion(e.g., a first portion) or a hydrophobic portion (e.g., a secondportion) of a formulation, depending on the peptide. For example, if theformulation is an emulsion, a hydrophilic peptide may be containedwithin a hydrophilic phase of the emulsion, while a hydrophobic peptidemay be contained within a hydrophobic phase of the emulsion; a peptidehaving both hydrophilic portions and hydrophobic portions may becontained at an interface between hydrophilic and hydrophobic phases ofthe emulsion. Accordingly, a variety of peptides, having differentproperties, may be used in various formulations and embodiments of thepresent invention. Similarly, nitric oxide may be added during or afterthe formulation of any phase or composition as described herein, e.g.,by routine methods and those described herein, e.g., by bubbling nitricoxide gas through any phase, formulation, or composition, as describedherein.

In another set of embodiments, the composition may also include one ormore transdermal penetration enhancers. Examples of transdermalpenetration enhancers include, but are not limited to,1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone or 1,2-propanediol. Other examplesinclude cationic, anionic, or nonionic surfactants (e.g., sodium dodecylsulfate, polyoxamers, etc.); fatty acids and alcohols (e.g., ethanol,oleic acid, lauric acid, liposomes, etc.); anticholinergic agents (e.g.,benzilonium bromide, oxyphenonium bromide); alkanones (e.g., n-heptane);amides (e.g., urea, N,N-dimethyl-m-toluamide); organic acids (e.g.,citric acid); sulfoxides (e.g., dimethylsulfoxide); terpenes (e.g.,cyclohexene); ureas; sugars; carbohydrates or other agents. Thetransdermal penetration enhancers can be present in any suitable amountwithin the composition. For example, at least about 10 wt %, at leastabout 20 wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, or atleast about 50 wt % of the composition may comprise one or moretransdermal penetration enhancers. In some cases, no more than about 60wt %, no more than about 50 wt %, no more than about 40 wt %, no morethan about 30 wt %, no more than about 20 wt %, no more than about 10 wt%, no more than about 9 wt %, or no more than about 5 wt % of thecomposition comprises transdermal penetration enhancers. For example,the composition may have between about 0 wt % and about 5 wt % of one ormore transdermal penetration enhancers.

In other embodiments, the composition may be modified in order tocontrol depth of penetration. For example, in certain embodiments, thecomposition includes one or more polymers that act to reduce penetrationdepth of nitric oxide and/or peptide. Controlled depth of penetrationmay be important for indications where local administration is desiredwithout systemic effects. Examples of transdermal penetration barrierpolymers include, but are not limited to, silicone waxes, acrylatepolymers, and dimethicone copolymers. In certain embodiments, atransdermal penetration barrier polymer is nonionic. A transdermalpenetration barrier polymer can be present in any suitable amount withinthe composition. For example, at least about 10 wt %, at least about 20wt %, at least about 30 wt %, at least about 40 wt %, or at least about50 wt % of the composition may comprise one or more transdermalpenetration barrier polymers. In some cases, no more than about 60 wt %,no more than about 50 wt %, no more than about 40 wt %, no more thanabout 30 wt %, no more than about 20 wt %, no more than about 10 wt %,no more than about 9 wt %, or no more than about 5 wt % of thecomposition comprises a transdermal penetration barrier polymer. Forexample, the composition may have between about 0 wt % and about 5 wt %of one or more transdermal penetration barrier polymers.

As a specific non-limiting example of one set of embodiments, apolyenylphosphatidylcholine comprises a certain material with the tradename NAT 8729, and optionally at least one polyglycol (polyhydricalcohol of a monomeric glycol such as polyethylene glycol 200, 300, 400,600, 1,000, 1,450, 3,350, 4,000, 6,000, 8,000 and 20,000). Thecomposition can also comprise a PPC-enriched phosphatidylcholinematerial that is present within the first or second phase, e.g.,comprising nitric oxide and/or peptide. The second phase may alsocomprise a surfactant such as a siloxylated polyether comprisingdimethyl, methyl(propylpolyethylene oxide propylene oxide, acetate)siloxane commercially available from vendors such as Dow Corning (DowCorning 190 surfactant) and lubricant such as silicone fluids containinglow viscosity polydimethylsiloxane polymers, methylparaben (p-hydroxybenzoic acid methyl ester) commercially available from vendors such asDow Corning (Dow Corning 200 silicone fluid).

In some embodiments, various compositions of the invention areformulated to be substantially clear or substantially transparent.Transparency may be useful, for instance, for product acceptance in themarketplace, e.g., when applied to the skin of a subject. However, inother embodiments, the composition is not necessarily transparent.Certain substances can be useful in providing a substantiallytransparent composition, for example, fatty acid esters such asascorbate palmitate or isopropyl palmitate. In one set of embodiments,the composition may be substantially transparent such that incidentvisible light (e.g., have wavelengths of between about 400 nm and about700 nm) can be transmitted through 1 cm of the composition with a lossin intensity of no more than about 50%, about 60%, about 70%, about 80%,or about 90% relative to the incident light. In some embodiments, theremay be no substantial difference in the wavelengths that are absorbed bythe composition (i.e., white light passing through the compositionappears white), although in other cases, there can be more absorption atvarious wavelengths (for example, such that white light passing throughthe composition may appear colored).

Other components may also be present within the composition, inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention. For example, thecomposition may include volatile organic fluids, fatty acids, volatilearomatic cyclic compounds, high molecular weight hydrocarbons, or thelike.

In accordance with certain aspects of the invention, the composition maybe prepared by mixing a first phase and a second phase together, thenpassing nitric oxide through the mixture. As discussed above, the secondphase can comprise an emulsifier, or any other components discussedherein. The first phase may comprise a lecithin such asphosphatidylcholine and/or polyenylphosphatidylcholine, e.g.,PPC-enriched phosphatidylcholine, for instance, as described herein. Insome embodiments, other components are also mixed into the composition,before or after (or while) adding nitric oxide, for example, peptides,transdermal penetration enhancers, adjuvants, polyglycols (e.g., PEGand/or PPG), surfactants, lubricants, etc. as discussed herein. In someembodiments, however, nitric oxide may be passed through the first phaseprior to mixing of the first phase with the second phase.

In one set of embodiments, after forming the mixture, nitric oxide canbe passed into or through the mixture, for example, by blowing bubblesof nitric oxide through the mixture. Nitric oxide may be delivered intothe mixture under pressures such as between about 3,000 Pa and about15,000 Pa, between about 5,000 Pa and about 10,000 Pa, or between about6,000 Pa and about 8,000 Pa, and/or temperatures such as between about0° C. and about 50° C., between about 20° C. and about 35° C., or about25° C. and about 30° C. However, higher or lower pressures also may beused in some embodiments as aspects of the invention are not limited inthis respect.

In certain embodiments, the nitric oxide is bubbled through the mixtureuntil the mixture begins to at least partially solidify. As an example,the viscosity of the mixture may increase to at least about 1,000 cP, atleast about 2,000 cP, at least about 3,000 cP, at least about 5,000 cP,at least about 7,000 cP, at least about 10,000 cP, at least about 12,000cP, at least about 15,000 cP, at least about 20,000 cP, at least about30,000 cP, at least about 40,000 cP, at least about 50,000 cP, at leastabout 60,000 cP, at least about 70,000 cP, or at least about 80,000 cP.The nitric oxide can be passed through the mixture as pure nitric oxide,and/or with other gases (e.g., a noble gas, for example, argon). In somecases, a nitric oxide donor may be passed into the mixture, and therein,at least some of the nitric oxide donor can be converted into nitricoxide. In other embodiments, however, the final composition may havelower viscosities, for example, such that the composition is liquid, orcould be sprayed onto the skin or onto a mucosal surface.

In one set of embodiments, the nitric oxide can be bubbled through themixture to cause the viscosity of the mixture to increase. For example,the viscosity can increase until the mixture begins to form a gel, acream, a lotion, an ointment, a solid “stick,” or the like. A cream maybe, for example, a semi-solid emulsion, e.g., comprising a first phaseand a second phase. The first phase may be discontinuous (e.g.,comprising small droplets or vesicles, such as is discussed herein) andthe second phase may be continuous, or vice versa. In some cases,however, both the first phase and the second phase are co-continuouswithin the mixture.

In some embodiments of the invention, a composition may be prepared asdiscussed above, then diluted, e.g., with a diluent, to produce a finalcomposition. For example, a “stock” composition may be initiallyprepared, e.g., having a relatively high nitric oxide and/or peptideconcentration, then the stock composition diluted to produce a finalcomposition, e.g., before use, before storage, before packaging, etc. Insome embodiments, the diluent used may be a component as discussedherein (for example, forming at least a portion of the second phase),and the same or different materials than may be present in the initialcomposition may be used. The dilution ratio (amount of diluent added,relative to the initial composition) may be at least about 2, at leastabout 3, at least about 5, at least about 10, at least about 15, atleast about 20, at least about 25, at least about 30, at least about 50,or at least about 100, or any other suitable factor.

A composition may be prepared and/or stored at any suitable temperatureand under any suitable conditions. In some embodiments, for instance, acomposition can be prepared and/or stored under limited or no oxygenconditions, as oxygen can adversely react with nitric oxide. Thecomposition can also be prepared and/or stored under limited or nonitrogen and/or carbon dioxide, as both can also react adversely withnitric oxide. For instance, the composition may be prepared and/orstored in a sealed environment (e.g., stored in a sealed container). Thesealed environment (e.g., container) can be at least substantiallydevoid of gas, and/or contains a gaseous mixture that excludes, or atleast is depleted in, oxygen. In some embodiments, an environmentdepleted in oxygen may have less than about 20%, less than about 15%,less than about 10%, less than about 5%, about 1% or less, about 0.1% orless, about 0.01% or less, about 0.001% or less, oxygen (e.g., as a wt %or as molar % per volume). For example, the gaseous mixture may includea noble gas, such as argon, helium, neon, etc. In one set ofembodiments, the container may comprise a multi-layered metallic and/orpolymeric barrier, e.g., formed from Glaminate® (American Can Company).For instance, the container may have the shape of a tube. Thus, incertain embodiments, the container is substantially resistant to oxygenpermeation, nitrogen permeation, and/or carbon dioxide permeation. Incertain embodiments, the container is substantially watertight, forexample, such that substantially no water is absorbed by the container,or such that no water is able to pass through the container even if thecontainer is filled with water.

As previously discussed, nitric oxide can react with water, and thus,compositions described herein may be prepared and/or stored underconditions where substantially no water is present. For example, nitricoxide and/or a nitric oxide containing preparation described herein maybe prepared and/or stored under relatively low relative humidities(e.g., less than about 50% RH, less than about 40% RH, less than about30% RH, less than about 20% RH, or less than about 10% RH), and/or inthe presence of a suitable desiccant, such as phosphorous pentoxide orsilica gel.

In certain embodiments, the mixture may be mixed with or otherwiseinclude adjunct ingredients, if applicable, and nitric oxide may beintroduced to the mixture, e.g., bubbles of nitric oxide gas may beblown into the mixture until the mixture hardens to obtain the desiredfinal composition. As a specific non-limiting example, a nitric oxidecomposition may be formed by preparing a non-liposome multilamellarliquid crystal phosphatidylcholine phase, for example, by providing apolyglycol, then introducing phosphatidyl choline into the glycol atroom temperature to form a phosphatidylcholine solution. Thephosphatidylcholine often comes as a solid (e.g., as a “brick” ofmaterial), and the phosphatidylcholine may be broken down into smallerpieces to aid in mixing, e.g., by “shaving” or grinding thephosphatidylcholine solid. The phosphatidylcholine solution is mixeduntil the phosphatidylcholine solution is substantially clear, then onemay warm the phosphatidylcholine solution to 40° C., mill the warmedsolution (i.e., low agitation after the initial mixing), combinesiloxylated polyether and polydimethylsiloxane to form a fluid, add thefluid to the warmed solution and milling until the solution is clear,adding methyl paraben or other suitable lubricant to the solution andmilling until the methyl paraben dissolves in the solution, warm waterto 40° C. and adding the warmed water slowly to the solution, and thenceasing milling of the solution and “sweeping” the solution (e.g., witha sweep mixer) to cool to room temperature. Nitric oxide gas can then bebubbled or otherwise introduced into the solution while cooling thesolution until the solution begins to harden or becomes stiff, e.g.,having the consistency of a gel or a cream, such as previouslydescribed. In some cases, the resulting composition is sealed in acontainer, for example, as discussed herein. Any suitable container maybe used, e.g., a tube or a bottle. In addition, the composition (e.g.,within the container) may be stored at room temperature, or any othersuitable temperature. For example, a composition of the invention may bestored at or below 80° C., e.g., at or below room temperature (about 25°C.) or in a refrigerator (e.g., at 4° C.) for extended period ofstorage, for instance, to prevent nitric oxide leakage or denaturing. Insome cases, storage may extend for at least about a week, at least about4 weeks, at least about 6 months, at least about a year, etc.

It is surprising that, according to some embodiments, nitric oxideand/or peptide not only can be entrapped in phosphatidylcholine orlecithin compositions such as those described herein, but also that suchentrapped compositions may have a long shelf life, especially whenrefrigerated. No loss or reaction of nitric oxide and/or peptide isexpected during extended refrigerated storage, at least under certainconditions. For instance, in certain embodiments, the composition may bestored at temperatures of less than about 80° C., less than about 70°C., less than about 60° C., less than about 50° C., less than about 40°C., less than about 30° C., less than about 25° C., less than about 20°C., less than about 15° C., less than about 10° C., less than about 5°C., less than about 0° C., etc., for extended periods of time, e.g., atleast about a day, at least about a week, at least about 4 weeks, atleast about 6 months, etc.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that nitric oxideforms reversible physical bonds, similar to hydrogen bonds or van derWaals forces, with phosphatidylcholine or other lecithin molecules,e.g., containing one or more double bonds, which may allow nitric oxideto become entrapped and thereby remain intact for an extended period oftime, e.g., during storage. These physical bonds, however, are believedto be not very stable, and may in some cases be easily broken up, forexample, upon various physical agitations such as rubbing thecomposition against skin or a mucosal surface, thereby releasing theentrapped nitric oxide. While others have stabilized other substances ordrugs within phosphatidylcholine or lecithin compositions or vesicles,for example, protein drugs such as insulin, it is surprising that asmall, highly reactive molecule such as NO could similarly bestabilized, especially when it would have been expected that a moleculeas small as NO would readily diffuse away from such compositions and/orwould have reacted with water that is typically present within suchcompositions.

In some embodiments, it is believed that other species reactive withwater could also be similarly stabilized, e.g., within a composition asherein described. Any species that ordinarily reacts with water could bestabilized within such compositions. Examples of such species include,but are not limited to, lithium, or drugs or polymers with labile bondssusceptible to hydrolysis, for instance, certain peptides,polysaccharides, polylactic acid, polyglycolic acid, etc.

In certain aspects of the invention, a composition such as thosedescribed herein can be administered to a subject, such as a humansubject, by rubbing it on the skin or a mucosal surface of the subject,e.g., in areas located at or at least within the vicinity of a desiredtarget area. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believedthat phosphatidylcholine provides or facilitates delivery of nitricoxide and/or peptides to the skin or a mucosal surface, and/or totissues below the skin or mucosal surface, allowing nitric oxide and/orpeptides to be delivered to a target area. In some embodiments, thecomposition can be applied, by rubbing the composition topically againstthe skin, or to the mucosal surface, which allows the composition (or atleast, nitric oxide and/or peptide) to be absorbed by the skin ormucosal surface. The composition can be applied once, or more than once.For example, the composition may be administered at predeterminedintervals. In some embodiments, for instance, the composition may beapplied once per day, twice per day, 3 times per day, 4 times per day,once every other day, once every three days, once every four days, etc.The amount of nitric oxide and/or peptide necessary to bring about thetherapeutic treatment is not fixed per se, and may depend upon factorssuch as the desired outcome, the type and severity the disease orcondition, the form of nitric oxide and/or peptide, the concentration ofnitric oxide and/or peptide present within the composition, etc.

Thus, another aspect of the invention provides methods of administeringany composition such as discussed herein to a subject. Whenadministered, the compositions of the invention are applied in atherapeutically effective, pharmaceutically acceptable amount as apharmaceutically acceptable formulation. Any of the compositions of thepresent invention may be administered to the subject in atherapeutically effective dose. When administered to a subject,effective amounts will depend on the particular condition being treatedand the desired outcome. A therapeutically effective dose may bedetermined by those of ordinary skill in the art, for instance,employing factors such as those described herein and using no more thanroutine experimentation.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the administration of variouscompositions of the invention may be designed so as to result insequential exposures to the composition over a certain time period, forexample, hours, days, weeks, months, or years. This may be accomplished,for example, by repeated administrations of a composition of theinvention by one or more of the methods described herein, or by asustained or controlled release delivery system in which the compositionis delivered over a prolonged period without repeated administrations.Administration of the composition using such a delivery system may be,for example, by a transdermal patch. Maintaining a substantiallyconstant concentration of the composition may be preferred in somecases.

For certain chronic treatments or therapies, it is contemplated that acomposition as discussed herein may be used to deliver nitric oxideand/or peptide to the skin or mucosal surface at a relatively highconcentration during an initial treatment, and the amount of nitricoxide and/or peptide may be lowered or “titrated” down to a relativelylower concentration maintenance dose or amount. A nitric oxide and/orpeptide containing composition as described herein can be used topromote vasodilation of blood vessels within and/or under the skin. As aspecific example, a composition described herein may be used for certaintreatments of sexual dysfunction, e.g., ED and FSAD. In some cases,gradual improvement may be observed with successive applications.

In some embodiments, an effective amount is an amount sufficient to havea measurable positive effect on blood flow and/or vasodilation, and/or ameasurable negative effect on blood pressure. In some embodiments, theeffect on blood flow and/or vasodilation is observed local to the siteof topical application. In some embodiments, an effective amount is anamount sufficient to have a measurable effect on the treatment of sexualdysfunction such as is described herein.

The compositions described herein can be used in combination therapywith one or more additional therapeutic agents. For combinationtreatment with more than one active agent, where the active agents arein separate dosage formulations, the active agents may be administeredseparately or in conjunction. In addition, the administration of oneelement may be prior to, concurrent to, or subsequent to theadministration of the other agent. In certain embodiments, theadditional therapeutic agent is present in a provided composition inaddition to nitric oxide and/or peptides. In other embodiments, theadditional therapeutic agent is administered separately from the nitricoxide and/or peptide containing composition.

When co-administered with other agents, an “effective amount” of thesecond agent will depend on the type of drug used. Suitable dosages areknown for approved agents and can be adjusted by the skilled artisanaccording to the condition of the subject, the type of condition(s)being treated and the amount of a compound described herein being used.In cases where no amount is expressly noted, an effective amount shouldbe assumed. For example, compounds described herein can be administeredto a subject in a dosage range from between about 0.01 to about 10,000mg/kg body weight/day, about 0.01 to about 5000 mg/kg body weight/day,about 0.01 to about 3000 mg/kg body weight/day, about 0.01 to about 1000mg/kg body weight/day, about 0.01 to about 500 mg/kg body weight/day,about 0.01 to about 300 mg/kg body weight/day, about 0.01 to about 100mg/kg body weight/day.

In one set of embodiments, the dosage may be between about 0.01 mg andabout 500 g, between about 0.01 mg and about 300 g, between about 0.01mg and about 100 g, between about 0.01 mg and about 30 g, between about0.01 mg and about 10 g, between about 0.01 mg and about 3 g, betweenabout 0.01 mg and about 1 g, between about 0.01 mg and about 300 mg,between about 0.01 mg and about 100 mg, between about 0.01 mg and about30 mg, between about 0.01 mg and about 10 mg, between about 0.01 mg andabout 3 mg, between about 0.01 mg and about 1 mg, between about 0.01 mgand about 0.3 mg, or between about 0.01 mg and about 0.1 mg.

In certain embodiments, a nitric oxide and/or peptide containingcomposition as described herein, and the additional therapeutic agentare each administered in an effective amount (i.e., each in an amountwhich would be therapeutically effective if administered alone). Inother embodiments, a nitric oxide and/or peptide containing compositionas described herein, and the additional therapeutic agent are eachadministered in an amount which alone does not provide a therapeuticeffect (a sub-therapeutic dose). In yet other embodiments, a nitricoxide and/or peptide containing composition as described herein can beadministered in an effective amount, while the additional therapeuticagent is administered in a sub-therapeutic dose. In still otherembodiments, a nitric oxide and/or peptide containing composition asdescribed herein can be administered in a sub-therapeutic dose, whilethe additional therapeutic agent is administered in an effective amount.

As used herein, the terms “in combination” or “co-administration” can beused interchangeably to refer to the use of more than one therapy (e.g.,one or more prophylactic and/or therapeutic agents). The use of theterms does not restrict the order in which therapies (e.g., prophylacticand/or therapeutic agents) are administered to a subject.

Co-administration encompasses administration of the first and secondamounts of the compounds in an essentially simultaneous manner, such asin a single pharmaceutical composition, for example, capsule or tablethaving a fixed ratio of first and second amounts, or in multiple,separate capsules or tablets for each. In addition, suchco-administration also encompasses use of each compound in a sequentialmanner in either order. When co-administration involves the separateadministration of the first amount of a composition as described herein,and a second amount of an additional therapeutic agent, the compoundsare administered sufficiently close in time to have the desiredtherapeutic effect. For example, the period of time between eachadministration which can result in the desired therapeutic effect, canrange from minutes to hours and can be determined taking into accountthe properties of each compound. For example, a composition as describedherein, and the second therapeutic agent can be administered in anyorder within about 24 hours of each other, within about 16 hours of eachother, within about 8 hours of each other, within about 4 hours of eachother, within about 1 hour of each other or within about 30 minutes ofeach other.

More specifically, a first therapy (e.g., a prophylactic or therapeuticagent such as a composition described herein) can be administered priorto (e.g., 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, 2hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 96hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, or12 weeks before), concomitantly with, or subsequent to (e.g., 5 minutes,15 minutes, 30 minutes, 45 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours,12 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, 96 hours, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3weeks, 4 weeks, 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks, or 12 weeks after) theadministration of a second therapy to a subject.

In one set of embodiments, a composition such as is discussed herein maybe applied to the skin or mucosal surface of a subject, e.g., at anysuitable location. The composition may be contacted using any suitablemethod. For example, the composition may be rubbed on, poured on,applied with an applicator (e.g., a gauze pad, a swab, a bandage, etc.),or the like. In some cases, the composition can be a liquid, a gel, acream, a lotion, an ointment, a solid “stick,” or the like, that can beapplied to the skin or mucosal surface by hand, for example, by rubbingor spraying.

The composition may be applied, in certain embodiments, at or near agenital region of the skin of a male or a female subject, e.g., to treatsexual dysfunction. For example, the composition may be applied to thepenis of a male subject or to the vulva of a female subject, or to anyother suitable genital perianal region. In certain embodiments, forinstance, the composition is used to treat erectile dysfunction. In somecases, the composition can be applied to a condom or other suitablesexual aid. The composition can be applied, for example, just before thesubject engages in sexual activity.

Compared to other means of administration, the use of topical (ormucosal) administration in certain embodiments of the present inventionhas various advantages, including one or more of the following. In somecases, administration of a composition and delivery of nitric oxideand/or peptides as discussed herein is easier and more effective thanother drug administration routes, for example, oral delivery. Unlikeoral administration where a substantial amount of nitric oxide and/orpeptide may be destroyed during the digestive process, nitric oxideand/or peptides delivered topically or to a mucosal surface is notexposed to the digestive tract. Topical or mucosal application may alsoallow, in some instances, relatively steady delivery of nitric oxideand/or peptide to the desired target area without the cyclic dosagestypical of orally or parenterally administered drugs. In someembodiments, topical or mucosal application may also avoid toxic sideeffects associated with sustained increased levels of nitric oxideand/or peptides typical of oral or parenteral administration.

Compared to other topical or mucosal delivery systems that employ nitricoxide donors (an entity that is able to release nitric oxide, such asL-arginine, nitroglycerin, or amyl nitrite) as a nitric oxide source,various aspects of the present invention utilizing nitric oxide gas haveseveral advantages, including one or more of the following. Nitric oxidecan be released relatively quickly in some embodiments, because therelease does not necessarily involve chemical transformations of nitricoxide donors to release nitric oxide. The concentration of nitric oxidecan accumulate quickly upon topical (or mucosal) administration, leadingto good therapeutic effect in certain embodiments of the invention.Thus, for example, rapid nitric oxide delivery may provide quickereffect in addressing issues of erectile dysfunction (or other sexualdysfunction in either male or female subjects) than is possible withoral dosage forms such as sildenafil. In other applications, it isexpected that nitric oxide and/or peptides can be similarly deliveredrapidly. In some embodiments, the release rate of nitric oxide and/orpeptides can be controlled, for instance, by physical actions (e.g., bycontrolling how much of the composition is applied to the skin), incomparison to nitric oxide donors which release nitric oxide uponchemical stimulation. Moreover, certain embodiments of the presentinvention employ phosphatidylcholine, a component of cell membranes, asa carrier which improves the penetration and absorption of nitric oxideand/or peptides into cells and tissues. Thus, certain compositions ofthe present invention will be non-toxic or biocompatible.

The compositions of the present invention may additionally comprise oneor more adjunct ingredients, for instance, pharmaceutical drugs or skincare agents. For example, compositions of the invention may includeadjuvants such as salts, buffering agents, diluents, excipients,chelating agents, fillers, drying agents, antioxidants, antimicrobials,preservatives, binding agents, bulking agents, silicas, solubilizers, orstabilizers. Non-limiting examples include species such as calciumcarbonate, sodium carbonate, lactose, kaolin, calcium phosphate, orsodium phosphate; granulating and disintegrating agents such as cornstarch or algenic acid; binding agents such as starch, gelatin oracacia; lubricating agents such as magnesium stearate, stearic acid, ortalc; time-delay materials such as glycerol monostearate or glyceroldistearate; suspending agents such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose,methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, sodium alginate,polyvinylpyrrolidone; dispersing or wetting agents such as lecithin orother naturally-occurring phosphatides; thickening agents such as cetylalcohol or beeswax; buffering agents such as acetic acid and saltsthereof, citric acid and salts thereof, boric acid and salts thereof, orphosphoric acid and salts thereof; or preservatives such as benzalkoniumchloride, chlorobutanol, parabens, or thimerosal. Suitableconcentrations can be determined by those of ordinary skill in the art,using no more than routine experimentation. Those of ordinary skill inthe art will know of other suitable formulation ingredients, or will beable to ascertain such, using only routine experimentation.

Preparations can include sterile aqueous or nonaqueous solutions,suspensions and emulsions, which can be isotonic with the blood of thesubject in certain embodiments. Examples of nonaqueous solvents arepolypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, vegetable oil such as oliveoil, sesame oil, coconut oil, arachis oil, peanut oil, mineral oil,organic esters such as ethyl oleate, or fixed oils including syntheticmono or di-glycerides. Aqueous solvents include water, alcoholic/aqueoussolutions, emulsions or suspensions, including saline and bufferedmedia. Parenteral vehicles include sodium chloride solution,1,3-butandiol, Ringer's dextrose, dextrose and sodium chloride, lactatedRinger's or fixed oils. Intravenous vehicles include fluid and nutrientreplenishers, electrolyte replenishers (such as those based on Ringer'sdextrose), and the like. Preservatives and other additives may also bepresent such as, for example, antimicrobials, antioxidants, chelatingagents and inert gases and the like. Those of skill in the art canreadily determine the various parameters for preparing and formulatingthe compositions of the invention without resort to undueexperimentation.

In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a kit includingone or more of the compositions discussed herein. A “kit,” as usedherein, typically defines a package or an assembly including one or moreof the compositions of the invention, and/or other compositionsassociated with the invention, for example, as described herein. Each ofthe compositions of the kit may be provided in liquid form (e.g., insolution), or in solid form (e.g., a dried powder). In certain cases,some of the compositions may be constitutable or otherwise processable(e.g., to an active form), for example, by the addition of a suitablesolvent or other species, which may or may not be provided with the kit.Examples of other compositions or components associated with theinvention include, but are not limited to, solvents, surfactants,diluents, salts, buffers, chelating agents, fillers, antioxidants,binding agents, bulking agents, preservatives, drying agents,antimicrobials, needles, syringes, packaging materials, tubes, bottles,flasks, beakers, dishes, frits, filters, rings, clamps, wraps, patches,containers, and the like, for example, for using, administering,modifying, assembling, storing, packaging, preparing, mixing, diluting,and/or preserving the compositions components for a particular use, forexample, to a sample and/or a subject.

A kit of the invention may, in some cases, include instructions in anyform that are provided in connection with the compositions of theinvention in such a manner that one of ordinary skill in the art wouldrecognize that the instructions are to be associated with thecompositions of the invention. For instance, the instructions mayinclude instructions for the use, modification, mixing, diluting,preserving, administering, assembly, storage, packaging, and/orpreparation of the composition and/or other compositions associated withthe kit. In some cases, the instructions may also include instructionsfor the delivery and/or administration of the compositions, for example,for a particular use, e.g., to a sample and/or a subject. Theinstructions may be provided in any form recognizable by one of ordinaryskill in the art as a suitable vehicle for containing such instructions,for example, written or published, verbal, audible (e.g., telephonic),digital, optical, visual (e.g., videotape, DVD, etc.) or electroniccommunications (including Internet or web-based communications),provided in any manner.

International Patent Application No. PCT/US2012/000151, filed Mar. 17,2012, entitled “Topical Nitric Oxide Systems and Methods of UseThereof,” by Nicholas V. Perricone, et al., is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety. In addition, the following applications, eachfiled on Sep. 19, 2012, each by Nicholas V. Perricone, are herebyincorporated by reference in their entireties: “Systems and Methods forTreatment of Acne Vulgaris and Other Conditions with a Topical NitricOxide Delivery System” (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/623,008);“Treatment of Skin and Soft Tissue Infection with Nitric Oxide” (U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/623,010); “Methods and Systems forTreatment of Inflammatory Dermatoses with Nitric Oxide” (U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/623,014); “Prevention and Treatment ofCardiovascular Diseases using Systems and Methods for Transdermal NitricOxide Delivery” (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/623,018);“Treatment and Prevention of Learning and Memory Disorders” (U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/623,022); “Methods and Compositions for Muscularor Neuromuscular Diseases” (U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/622,998); “Compositions and Methods for Treatment of Osteoporosis andOther Indications” (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/623,004);“Techniques and Systems for Treatment of Neuropathic Pain and OtherIndications” (U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/623,027); and “CancerTreatments and Compositions for Use Thereof” (U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/622,989).

Additionally, the following U.S. patent applications, each filed on thesame date as the earliest date to which the instant application claimspriority, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties:“Systems and Methods for Delivery of Peptides”; “Treatment of Skin,Including Aging Skin, to Improve Appearance”; “Hair Treatment Systemsand Methods Using Peptides and Other Compositions”; “Skin Tanning UsingPeptides and Other Compositions”; “Immune Modulation Using Peptides andOther Compositions”; “Cardiovascular Disease Treatment and Prevention”;“Wound Healing Using Topical Systems and Methods”; “Peptide Systems andMethods for Metabolic Conditions”; “Methods and Systems for Treating orPreventing Cancer”; “Compositions and Methods for Affecting MoodStates”; “Improvement of Memory or Learning Using Peptide and OtherCompositions”; and “Brain and Neural Treatments Comprising Peptides andOther Compositions.”

The following examples are intended to illustrate certain embodiments ofthe present invention, but do not exemplify the full scope of theinvention.

EXAMPLE 1

This example illustrates one technique for preparing a composition inaccordance with one embodiment of the invention. An accurate amount of acarrier (HNC 167-62) (see below) was introduced into a system. Thecarrier weight used in these experiments was approximately 250 g and thevessel size was 500 ml. The vessel was equipped with a mechanicalstirrer, gas inlet, and gas outlet and was previously purged with argonfor about an hour. The temperature of the carrier was kept at about25-30° C. NO gas regulated at 5 psi (1 psi is about 6,900 Pa) and wasthen introduced at a controlled rate of about 1 bubble/s with continuousstirring. The color, consistency, and viscosity of the carrier did notappear to change if NO was bubbled for 30 minutes to 2 hours. After 6hours, the weight of the carrier had increased by 0.15%, by 12 hours by0.25%, and by 24 hours by 0.56%. These increases in weight were believedto be significant considering the relative small molecular weight of NOversus the carrier. Although there was a slight change in color duringthe experiment (the color changed to slightly more orange), IR spectrumanalysis of the final product did not show any change versus the initialcarrier, indicating no noticeable chemical change in the carrier. Thecarrier also can solidify upon cooling if the carrier is initially asolid at lower temperature. Accordingly, this example demonstrates thata composition containing NO can be prepared in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention.

EXAMPLE 2

In this example, six experiments were carried out to investigate theinteraction of nitric oxide with three carriers (HNC 157-62, HNC 157-65,and HNC 157-69) as well as with 1,3-propanediol, using experimentalconditions similar to that described for Example 1. In addition threeexperiments were performed to prepare carriers containing 800 ppm and500 ppm nitric oxide. HNC 157-62 was formed of 65% Phospholipon-90G(American Lecithin Company), 18% isopropyl palmitate (Kraft Chemicals),8% capric caprylic triglycerides (RITA Corp.), and 9% propanediol(Dupont). HNC 157-65 was formed of 65% Phospholipon-90G, 13% isopropylpalmitate, 14% capric caprylic triglycerides, 3% propanediol, and 5%dimethyl isosorbide (Croda). HNC 157-69 was formed from 65%Phospholipon-90G, 16% isopropyl palmitate, and 19% capric caprylictriglycerides.

The compositions were generally prepared as follows. Isopropylpalmitate, capric caprylic triglyceride, propanediol (for HNC 157-62 andHNC 157-65), and dimethyl isosorbide (for HNC 157-65) were mixedtogether and warmed to 40° C. Phospholipon-90G was then gradually addedto this liquid mixture by mixing it. Phospholipon-90G is typicallyreceived as individual pellets, and is mixed into the solution untilfully dissolved. The mixture was subsequently filtered through a sieveto remove any undissolved Phospholipon-90G.

Accordingly, the HNC carriers included 1,3-propanediol,Phospholipon-90G, isopropyl palmitate, capric and/or caporictriglycerides, and Arlasolve DMI (ICI America or Croda). Isopropylpalmitate, the capric and/or caporic triglycerides, and Arlasolve DMIare expected to be chemically inert towards nitric oxide, while theliterature suggests that 1,2-propanediol and glycerol may be able toreact with nitric oxide gas to form mononitrates. Accordingly, it wouldbe expected that 1,3-propanediol may also react with NO to formmononitrates:

In addition, Phospholipon-90G is derived from soybean and containsesters of unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic, linoleic, and linolenicacids, and thus, the unsaturated fatty acid part of Phospholipon-90Gwould react with nitric oxide to lead to a variety of nitrated products.

Each carrier was taken in a 500 mL three necked flask equipped with amechanical stirrer, gas inlet and a gas outlet. The system was purgedwith argon for one hour at room temperature (25° C.). Then nitric oxidegas was bubbled into the system. Then, nitric oxide gas was bubbledthrough carrier for stipulated amount of time. The changes in weight andcolor were noted. The details of individual experiments were as follows.

Experiment 1. The carrier was HNC 157-62. Nitric oxide gas was bubbledfor 24 hours at 25° C. The initial weight of carrier was 168.53 g., andthe final weight was 169.48 g. The net weight gained was 0.95 g and thepercentage weight gain was 0.56%.

Experiment 2. The carrier used was HNC 157-62. Nitric oxide gas wasbubbled for 48 hours at 25° C. The initial weight of carrier was 171.31g., and the final weight was 174.21 g. The net weight gained was 2.90Gand the percentage weight gain was 1.69%.

Experiment 3. In order to differentiate between chemical reaction vs.physical absorption, the above reaction mixtures were heated at 55-60°C. for four hours. Minimal loss of weight was observed (˜200 mg),indicating no loss of absorbed nitric oxide gas. However, more intenseorange color developed during this process, indicating somedecomposition of the nitrites formed.

Experiment 4. The carrier used was HNC 157-65. Nitric oxide gas wasbubbled for 24 hours at 25° C. The initial weight of carrier was 171.66g., and the final weight was 172.98 g. The net weight gained was 1.32 gand percentage weight gain was 0.77%.

Experiment 5. The carrier used was HNC 157-69 (same as HNC 157-62,except it had no 1,3-propanediol). Nitric oxide gas was bubbled for 40hours at 25° C. The initial weight of carrier was 171.02 g., and thefinal weight was 171.97 g. The net weight gained was 0.95 g and thepercentage weight gain was 0.56%.

Experiment 6. Nitric oxide gas was bubbled through 1,3-propanediol(neat) for 40 hours at 25° C. The initial weight of the 1,3-propanediolwas 178.81 g., and the final weight was 178.97 g. The net weight gainedwas 0.16 g and the percentage weight gain was 0.09%.

Experiment 7. For preparation of 800 ppm NO, the carrier used was HNC157-62. Nitric oxide gas was bubbled for 2 hours at 25° C. The initialweight of carrier was 238.16 g., and the final weight was 238.35 g. Thenet weight gained was 0.19 g and the percentage weight gain 0.0798%(˜800 ppm). See entry 5 in Table 1.

Experiment 8. For preparation of 500 ppm NO, the carrier used was HNC157-65. Nitric oxide gas was bubbled for 2 hours at 25° C. The initialweight of carrier was 250.37 g., and the final weight was 250.50 g. Thenet weight gained was 0.13 g and the percentage weight gain was 0.0519%(˜500 ppm). See entry 6 in Table 1.

Experiment 9. For preparation of 800 ppm NO, the carrier used was HNC157-62. Nitric oxide gas was bubbled for 15 min at 25° C. The initialweight of carrier was 252.24 g., and the final weight was 252.45 g. Thenet weight gained was 0.21 g and the percentage weight gain 0.083% (˜800ppm).

These experiments were conducted with carriers the HNC 157-62, HNC157-65, HNC 157-69, and 1,3-propanediol.

As described above and in Table 1, weight gains ranging from 0.5% to1.7% were observed when nitric oxide gas was passed through thecarriers. In order to determine the nature of interaction between nitricoxide and carrier, the carrier was heated after nitric oxide absorptionat 60° C. for four hours. Practically no loss of weight was observed,which indicated that the nitric oxide gas reacted chemically with thecarriers (entries 1-4 in Table 1).

In order to investigate the reactivity of 1,3-propanediol with nitricoxide, nitric oxide absorption was studied using (a) HNC 157-69, whichdid not contain 1,3-propanediol, and (b) 1,3-propanediol by itself. HNC157-69 gained 0.95 g or 0.56% weight, much lower compared to its1,3-propanediol containing analog HNC 157-62, which showed 1.69% weightgain (entries 2 and 5 of Table 1). 1,3-propanediol itself, surprisingly,showed only negligible, if any, weight gain when NO was passed throughit (entry 6 in Table 1). Thus, under experimental conditions,1,3-propanediol did not react with nitric oxide.

Two samples were also prepared containing 800 ppm NO (from carrier HNC157-62) and one sample containing 500 ppm NO (from carrier HNC 157-65)(entries 7-9 in Table 1). The IR spectra of the carriers did not showany additional bands after the reaction, possibly because of low amountsof nitrites and/or overlap with the carrier complex bands.

Mass spectral studies of the carrier HNC 157-62 and HNC 157-62containing NO indicated that there was an increase in the intensity ofthe peak at m/e 104 in NO-containing carrier, compared to carrierwithout NO. The peak at m/e 104 was believed to be due to choline cation(C₅H₁₄NO). Phospholipon-90G may contain some free choline, and hencepresence of the peak at 104 in the mass spectrum of the carrier was notsurprising. However, the increase in the amount of choline after passageof NO was somewhat unexpected, although it is believed that nitric oxidecatalyzes similar dephosphorylation of Phospholipon-90G releasingcholine.

In conclusion, an increase in weight (0.56 to 1.69%) was observed whennitric oxide gas was passed through the carriers. 1,3-propanediol failedto gain any significant weight when nitric oxide was passed through it.HNC 157-69 (devoid of 1,3-propanediol) gained only 0.56% weight comparedto 1.69% by its 1,3-propanediol containing analog HNC 157-62. The massspectra of HNC 157-62 before and after passing NO indicated that thepeak corresponding to choline at m/e 104 increased after the passage ofNO, which suggests that phospholipon-90G may undergo NO-catalyzeddephosphorylation.

TABLE 1 Initial Final Wt. % Expt. wt. wt. Time Temp. Gain Wt. No.Carrier g. g. hr ° C. g gain 1 HNC 168.53 169.48 24 25 0.95 0.56 157-622 HNC 171.31 174.21 48 25 2.90 1.69 157-62 3 HNC 174.21* 174.01 4 60−0.20 −0.11 157-62 4 HNC 171.66 172.98 24 25 1.32 0.77 157-65 5 HNC171.02 171.97 40 25 0.95 0.56 157-69 6 1,3- 178.81 178.97 40 25 0.160.09 Propanediol 7 HNC 238.16 238.35 2 25 0.19 0.0798 157-62 (~800 ppm)8 HNC 250.37 250.50 2 25 0.13 0.0519 157-65 (~500 ppm) 9 HNC 252.24252.45 0.25 25 0.21 0.0833 157-62 (~800 ppm)

EXAMPLE 3

This example illustrates non-invasive blood pressure measurements inmice using a composition in accordance with one embodiment of theinvention.

Blood pressure in mice may be measured using blood volume changes in themouse tail. Mice with normal tails (no clipping or short) were used inthis study. Ages varied between 8 weeks and 24 weeks. This procedureuses the CODA non-invasive blood pressure system available from KentScientific (Torrington, Conn.) Mice weighing approximately 25 grams wererestrained in plastic cylindrical housing with a nose come allowing thenose to protrude. Two tail cuffs provided occlusion and measurements.The O-cuff provided period occlusion while the VPR cuff providesvolume-pressure recordings. The occlusion pressure and the recordedpressure were controlled automatically by the computer software.

Each measurement had 10 acclimation cycles and 20 measurement cyclesonce daily depending on the experimental parameters. The average bloodpressure of male mice made over time was 136/88. In this study, bloodpressure measurements of the control (base) mice and the test (treated)mice were made and averaged over a period of three days. The testcomposition comprised 800 ppm nitric oxide, which was applied over theupper back of the animal in a quantity that exceeded 50 mg. The bloodpressures were recorded after each application and over 1 hour. Thefollowing results were obtained.

TABLE 2 Average Blood Pressure Reading Post Application Control (Base)Product Test (Treated) NO 800 ppm Time 0 167/123 140/91 1 Hour 170/128115/69This study shows that the application of the test product is capable ofreducing the blood pressure in a mouse to a significantly lower value.

EXAMPLE 4

This example illustrates capillary blood flow measurements in humansusing a composition similar to the ones described in the above examples.

Microcirculation properties of the skin were measured before and afterapplication of a test product with nitric oxide. Measurements were madeusing a Moor® Laser Doppler instrument. Measurements were made at Day 1before and immediately, 5 and 15 minutes after treatment.

The study participants were healthy females aged 30 to 55 years. Theywere in good health as determined by the medical history and were nottaking any prescription medications. The test product was labeled as 800ppm NO (nitric oxide). The study participants had 100 mg of the testproduct applied in a 2×2 sq. inch area on the forearm.

Laser Doppler was performed to measure increased stimulation of themicro-capillary blood flow to skin. The micro-circulation of the skinreflects the perfusion of the skin and the underlying tissue. The laserDoppler technique is the standard method to obtain dynamic measurementof capillary blood flow in clinical evaluation. Measurements can be maderelatively rapidly and simultaneously at sites. In addition, temperaturemeasurements may also be made at the same time.

A Moor Instruments DRT4 Laser Doppler Blood Flow Monitor (Devon,England) was used. The laser Doppler technique measures blood flow inthe microcapillaries of the skin that are close to the skin surface andthe blood flow in underlying arterioles and venules that help toregulate skin temperature. There are several parameter used to describeblood flow measured by this laser Doppler technique. These measurementparameters are defined by Moor Instruments Inc. and are listed below.

Flux: This parameter is related to the product of average speed andconcentration of moving red blood cells in the tissue sample volume. Itis the parameter most widely reported in Laser Doppler publication.

Conc: This parameter gives an indication of the number of moving redblood cells in the tissue sample volume.

Speed: This parameter gives an indication of the average speed of redblood cells moving in the tissue sample volume.

Temp: This is the probe temperature and where there is good thermalconduction between probe and tissue it reaches tissue temperature.

Because of the nature of blood flow in the capillaries and other smallblood vessels, absolute flow units such as ml/minute cannot beexpressed. Therefore, arbitrary units are used. Blood flow changes aredefined as the percentage change from the baseline of these arbitraryunits.

The procedure was as follows. The laser Doppler probe was attached ontothe volar forearm. Control untreated skin readings (Baseline) wereobtained for 15 minutes. The test product was then applied in thedesignated 2×2 sq. inch area and rubbed into the skin. Readings wereobtained for 15 minutes.

The areas not used for evaluation include the first 15 seconds afterstarting data collection. Four 10 second areas in the baseline and testreadings at each time point were randomly selected to obtain the meanaverages which were then used in further analysis of the data.

The averaged data was compiled from the 4 study participants and thelaser Doppler results are provided in FIG. 1. There was a significantdifference observed in the control untreated skin and the skin treatedwith 800 ppm nitric oxide up to 15 minutes after application. Theapplied nitric oxide had an effect on the micro circulation of the skinat the applied level (100 mg in a 2×2 sq. inch area). The topical testproduct is capable of passing through the skin and affecting themicrocirculation of the skin.

EXAMPLE 5

This example illustrates delivery of nitric oxide formulations similarto those discussed herein in humans. In these studies, laser Dopplerstudies were performed on three human female subjects. As discussedbelow, all of the studies showed positive results consistent with aphysiological effect of nitric oxide applied to the skin, passingthrough the skin and affecting the capillary circulation. Theformulations used produce positive, almost immediate results whenapplied to the skin which, in these studies, was manifested byvasodilatation of the cutaneous vascular system.

While nitric oxide has many physiological effects, the purpose of thesestudies was to measure physiological effects that would be relativelyeasy to determine, and which would be noninvasive. Laser Doppler wasselected for these studies because laser Doppler has a relatively largedatabase that indicates that it is effective in determining an increasein microcirculation, i.e., circulation within the capillary bedimmediately under the epidermal layer in the skin. Nitric oxide iscapable of violating the capillary bed, and thus, laser Doppler wasselected.

The formulation used in these studies contained nitric oxide dispersedin a lipid matrix. The nitric oxide was dispersed in the matrix and doesnot appear to be dissolved but remained intact, i.e., it appeared todiffuse into the skin as a molecule of nitric oxide rather than asatomic components or ions. Nitric oxide is a very rapid acting molecule,and these studies used a system that employed laser Doppler with acovered chamber. The formulation was placed into the chamber and thenattached to the skin by an adhesive layer on the covering. This provideda stable measuring device as determined by multiple normal evaluationsof the capillary blood flow without treatment of nitric oxide.

A known positive control, methyl nicotinate, was applied to the skin ata concentration of 1/10% in alcohol. There was a rapid response typicalof the vasodilator. The vascular dynamics are such that when the bloodvessels dilate physical parameters follow Bernoulli's law. This statesthat as one increases the diameter of a tube containing a liquid to flowwill increase but the pressure and the speed of the liquid willdecrease. The laser Doppler device accurately measured these parameters.

When nitric oxide was applied to the forearm of three human femalesubjects, it was observed that there was an immediate effect on theblood flow as soon as the formulation was applied. The speed of bloodflow decreased, and the effects lasted over 15 minutes. There was noerythema and no discomfort to the subjects that was observed.

Thus, these studies showed that the nitric oxide in the lipid matrixwhen applied topically to the forearm, was able to penetrate the skinvery rapidly and to interact with the underlying tissues. This isevidenced by the observation of vascular dilatation without erythema.Accordingly, it can be concluded from these studies that the formulationcontaining nitric oxide was effective in delivering nitric oxide throughthe skin in a physiologically active state.

In these studies, the participants were healthy females aged 30 to 55years. They were in good health as determined by the medical history andwere not taking any prescription medications. All study participantsread and signed the informed consent statement prior to any studyprocedures being performed.

The test product was labeled as 10,000 ppm NO (nitric oxide). The studyparticipants had 100 mg of the test product applied in a closed Hilltopchamber on the forearm.

Laser Doppler was performed to measure increased stimulation of themicro-capillary blood flow to skin. The micro-circulation of the skinreflected the perfusion of the skin and the underlying tissue. LaserDoppler is a standard method to obtain dynamic measurement of capillaryblood flow in clinical evaluation. Measurements can be made relativelyrapidly and simultaneously at sites. In addition, temperaturemeasurements may also be made at the same time.

A Moor Instruments DRT4 Laser Doppler Blood Flow Monitor (Devon,England) was used in these studies. The laser Doppler technique measuredblood flow in the microcapillaries of the skin that are close to theskin surface and the blood flow in underlying arterioles and venulesthat help to regulate skin temperature. Because of the nature of bloodflow in the capillaries and other small blood vessels, it is difficultto determine absolute flow units such as ml/minute. Therefore, arbitraryunits were used in these experiments to determine relative changes.Blood flow changes were accordingly defined as the percentage changefrom the baseline using the arbitrary units.

Data was compiled from the three study participants and the laserDoppler studies and averaged. It observed that there was a significantdifference observed in the control untreated skin and the skin treatedwith 10,000 ppm nitric oxide up to 15 minutes after application. Theapplied nitric oxide had an effect on the microcirculation of the skinat the applied level (100 mg in a lipid matrix). The formulation wasdetermined to be capable of passing through the skin and affecting themicrocirculation of the skin.

EXAMPLE 6

This example illustrates a protocol used for determining the amount ofnitric oxide released from various compositions of the presentinvention. The protocol is generally performed as follows:

1) Samples (within HNC carriers described herein) were maintained ateither 4° C. or −20° C. until analyzed.

2) One at a time and before they were opened, samples were warmed to 37°C. (dry bath) in a controlled atmosphere of 1% O₂. They were opened and150 microliters was removed and placed into 1.35 mL of PBS (pH 7.4, 25°C. and equilibrated to 13 micromolar O₂) in a small glass screw-cap vialminimizing headspace.

3) The vials were then subjected to 15 s of vortex agitation, capsopened and 1 mL quickly removed and immediately injected into a SieversNitric Oxide Analyzer reaction chamber containing 4 mL of deionized anddistilled H₂O equilibrated at 0% O₂ by a N₂ flow through gas andmaintained at 37° C. by flow-through water jacket.

4) Peaks were analyzed by comparing values to a standard curve generatedby injecting various concentrations of the NO donor1-(hydroxy-NNO-azoxy)-L-proline (PROLI-NONOate). To standardize amongsamples, the area under the curve from 0 to 4 min was used forconcentration determinations are expressed in moles of NO and have beencorrected for the 2 dilutions (50×). As such, these values equal molesof NO/150 microliter matrix.

5) The authenticity of NO formation was validated by injecting 50 mM ofthe NO spin trap2-(4-carboxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1H-imidazolyl-1-oxy-3-oxide(cPTIO) or by injecting sample into the reaction chamber containing 50mM cPTIO and observing the absence of signal.

6) For each sample, the area under the curve from t=0 to t=4 min wascalculated for concentration determinations. Calculations represent onlythe amount of NO released during this 4 min time span and thus do notrepresent the total amount of NO contained in the volume of matrixassessed (150 microliters). For each vial 3-5 independent determinationswere performed (this means each injection represents removal of 150microliters of matrix from the labeled vial, dilution in PBS andinjection. As such, these were completely independent measurements frombeginning to end.

TABLE 3 Sample ID Mean (millimoles NO) Std Dev 1000 11.4 1.55 4000 60.71.70 7000 72.1 11.9 10000 127.9 11.3In this table, the Sample ID numbers correspond to the amount of nitricoxide, in ppm, that was formulated in the composition (sample) tested.

Based on these results, the compositions tested here appeared to beeffective in entrapping nitric oxide gas, and are effective in releasingthe trapped gas in a measureable and significant way.

EXAMPLE 7

This example illustrates techniques for preparing compositions inaccordance with one or more embodiments of the invention. Specifically,four formulations suitable as peptide and nitric oxide carriers areprovided: two four-phase formulations (HNC 156-43, HNC 156-50), and twosingle-phase formulations (HNC 156-47, HNC 159-136).

HNC 156-43

This formulation was formed of: 77.7% water, 6.0% Phospholipon-90G(American Lecithin Company), 0.10% EDTA-Na₂ (Sigma), 0.1% citric acid,5.0% isopropyl palmitate (IPP, Kraft Chemicals), 5.0% Promulgen-D(Lubrizol), 3.0% Arlacel-165 (Croda), 1.0% cetearyl alchohol 50/50, 0.5%Dow Corning Fluid 200-10 CST, 0.1% Tocotrienol-50C (Carotech), 0.5%Optiphen Plus (Lotioncrafter), and 1.0% Seppitonic M3 (Seppic).

The individual ingredients were divided between four phases as follows:

Phase 1: water, Phospholipon-90G, EDTA-Na_(2,) citric acid.

Phase 2: IPP, Promulgen-D, Arlacel-165, cetearyl alchohol 50/50, DowCorning Fluid 200-10 CST, Tocotrienol-50C.

Phase 3: Optiphen Plus.

Phase 4: Seppitonic M3.

HNC 156-50

This formulation was formed of: 78.3% water, 10.0% Phospholipon-90G(American Lecithin Company), 0.10% EDTA-Na₂ (Sigma), 0.2% sodiumhyaluronate (1% solution), 3.0% isopropyl palmitate (IPP, KraftChemicals), 3.0% Promulgen-D (Lubrizol), 4.0% Arlacel-165 (Croda), 0.7%cetearyl alchohol 50/50, 0.5% Optiphen Plus (Lotioncrafter), and 0.2%dimethylethanolamine (DMAE, Sigma).

The individual ingredients were divided between four phases as follows:

Phase 1: water, Phospholipon-90G, EDTA-Na_(2,) sodium hyaluronate.

Phase 2: IPP, Promulgen-D, Arlacel-165, cetearyl alchohol 50/50.

Phase 3: Optiphen Plus.

Phase 4: DMAE.

The four-phase compositions were generally prepared as follows: Phases 1and 2 were heated to 60° C., added and mixed together, then allowed tocool to 48° C., at which point Phase 3 was added and mixed. The mixturewas then allowed to cool to 38° C., at which point phase 4 was added andmixed.

HNC 156-47

This formulation was formed of: 47% water, 5.0% PEG-200 (Sigma), 45%Phospholipon-90G (American Lecithin Company), 1.0% benzyl alcohol, and2.0% ethyl alcohol.

HNC 159-136

This formulation was formed of: 65% Phospholipon-90G (American LecithinCompany), 18.0% isopropyl palmitate (IPP, Kraft Chemicals), 8% capriccaprylic triglycerides (RITA Corp.), and 9% propanediol (Dupont).

Any of the above compositions are effective as carriers for peptides andnitric oxide. For example, the TRH peptide was shown to be effectivelycarried by each of the above formulations at a TRH concentration of 5.0mg/cc.

EXAMPLE 8

This example illustrates delivery of nitric oxide formulations to fivehuman subjects, using procedures and formulations similar to thosediscussed in Example 5. Each person served as their own control for thetesting. A Moor Instruments Laser Doppler was used to determinecirculation. All of these studies showed positive results consistentwith a physiological effect of nitric oxide applied to the skin, passingthrough the skin and affecting the capillary circulation. Theformulations used produce positive, almost immediate results whenapplied to the skin which, in these studies, was manifested byvasodilatation of the cutaneous vascular system.

For each subject, the following creams were applied: a negative controlformulation (containing no NO), 0.010 gram of a 10,000 ppm NOformulation, 0.020 gram of a 10,000 ppm NO formulation, and a positivecontrol formulation containing 0.1% methyl nicotinate. The formulationswere prepared using procedures similar to those discussed in Example 1.

When nitric oxide was applied to the forearm of the subjects, it wasobserved that there was an immediate effect on the blood flow as soon asthe formulation was applied. The speed of blood flow decreased, and theeffects lasted over 15 minutes. There was no erythema and no discomfortto the subjects that was observed.

Data was compiled from the study participants and the laser Dopplerstudies and averaged. It observed that there was a significantdifference observed in the control untreated skin (where no detectablevasodilation was observed), and the treatments involving 0.010 g of NO,0.020 g of NO, and methyl nicotinate. For all three treatments,vasodilatation was observed, with somewhat greater vasodilatation forthe 0.010 g formulation over the 0.02 g formulation. In addition, theamount of vasodilatation observed for the 0.01 g formulation of NO wasgenerally similar to the amount of vasodilatation observed for methylnicotinate.

Accordingly, these data demonstrate that NO as applied in a cream to theskin is able to penetrate the skin and affect bloodflow beneath theskin.

While several embodiments of the present invention have been describedand illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readilyenvision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing thefunctions and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of theadvantages described herein, and each of such variations and/ormodifications is deemed to be within the scope of the present invention.More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatall parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations describedherein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters,dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon thespecific application or applications for which the teachings of thepresent invention is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize,or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, manyequivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention describedherein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoingembodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within thescope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, the invention maybe practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Thepresent invention is directed to each individual feature, system,article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, anycombination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials,kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials,kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included withinthe scope of the present invention.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood tocontrol over dictionary definitions, definitions in documentsincorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the definedterms.

The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in thespecification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to thecontrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in theclaims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements soconjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some casesand disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with“and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” ofthe elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be presentother than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause,whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when usedin conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer,in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other thanB); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionallyincluding other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should beunderstood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. Forexample, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall beinterpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, butalso including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and,optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated tothe contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when usedin the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactlyone element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or”as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusivealternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded byterms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or“exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims,shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “atleast one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should beunderstood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more ofthe elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including atleast one of each and every element specifically listed within the listof elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the listof elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally bepresent other than the elements specifically identified within the listof elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether relatedor unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as anon-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “atleast one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) canrefer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including morethan one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements otherthan B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally includingmore than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elementsother than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionallyincluding more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including morethan one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to thecontrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one stepor act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarilylimited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method arerecited.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitionalphrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,”“containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are tobe understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limitedto. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consistingessentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases,respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual ofPatent Examining Procedures, Section 2111.03.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method, comprising: administering, to a subjecthaving or at risk of sexual dysfunction, a composition comprising aneffective amount of MSH or an MSH agonist and molecular nitric oxide totreat or prevent the sexual dysfunction, and a carrier comprisingphosphatidylcholine containing the molecular nitric oxide, wherein thecomposition is stable at room temperature.
 2. The method of claim 1,wherein the composition is administered to a mucosal surface of thesubject.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject is female, andthe composition is administered to the vulva of the female subject. 4.The method of claim 1, wherein the subject is male, and the compositionis administered to the penis of the male subject.
 5. The method of claim1, wherein the MSH agonist comprises afamelanotide.
 6. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the MSH agonist comprises bremelanotide.
 7. The methodof claim 1, wherein the MSH agonist comprises Melanotan-II.
 8. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the composition comprisespolyenylphosphatidylcholine.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein thecomposition comprises a liquid crystal structure.
 10. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the composition comprises no more than about 250 ppm ofwater by weight of the composition.
 11. The method of claim 1, whereinthe phosphatidylcholine is present at at least about 0.25% by weight ofthe composition.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the molecular nitricoxide is present at at least about 0.5% by weight of the compositionwithout nitric oxide.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the molecularnitric oxide is present within the composition as a gas.
 14. The methodof claim 1, wherein the molecular nitric oxide is bound by hydrogenbonds or van der Waals forces to the phosphatidylcholine.
 15. A method,comprising: administering, to a subject having or at risk of sexualdysfunction, a composition comprising an effective amount of MSH or anMSH agonist and molecular nitric oxide to treat or prevent the sexualdysfunction, and a carrier comprising phosphatidylcholine containing themolecular nitric oxide, wherein the first phase comprises no more thanabout 250 ppm of water by weight of the composition.
 16. The method ofclaim 15, wherein the composition is administered to a mucosal surfaceof the subject.
 17. The method of claim 15, wherein the subject isfemale, and the composition is administered to the vulva of the femalesubject.
 18. The method of claim 15, wherein the subject is male, andthe composition is administered to the penis of the male subject. 19.The method of claim 15, wherein the MSH agonist comprises afamelanotide.20. The method of claim 15, wherein the MSH agonist comprisesbremelanotide.
 21. The method of claim 15, wherein the MSH agonistcomprises Melanotan-II.
 22. The method of claim 15, wherein thecomposition comprises polyenylphosphatidylcholine.
 23. The method ofclaim 15, wherein the composition comprises a liquid crystal structure.24. The method of claim 15, wherein the composition is stable at roomtemperature.
 25. The method of claim 15, wherein the phosphatidylcholineis present at at least about 0.25% by weight of the composition.
 26. Themethod of claim 15, wherein the molecular nitric oxide is present at atleast about 0.5% by weight of the composition without nitric oxide. 27.The method of claim 15, wherein the molecular nitric oxide is presentwithin the composition as a gas.
 28. The method of claim 15, wherein themolecular nitric oxide is bound by hydrogen bonds or van der Waalsforces to the phosphatidylcholine.
 29. A method, comprising:administering, to a subject having or at risk of sexual dysfunction, acomposition comprising an effective amount of TRH and molecular nitricoxide to treat or prevent the sexual dysfunction, and a carriercomprising phosphatidylcholine containing the molecular nitric oxide,wherein the first phase comprises no more than about 250 ppm of water byweight of the composition.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein thecomposition is administered to a mucosal surface of the subject.
 31. Themethod of claim 29, wherein the subject is female, and the compositionis administered to the vulva of the female subject.
 32. The method ofclaim 29, wherein the subject is male, and the composition isadministered to the penis of the male subject.
 33. The method of claim29, wherein the composition comprises polyenylphosphatidylcholine. 34.The method of claim 29, wherein the composition comprises a liquidcrystal structure.
 35. The method of claim 29, wherein the compositionis stable at room temperature.
 36. The method of claim 29, wherein thephosphatidylcholine is present at at least about 0.25% by weight of thecomposition.
 37. The method of claim 29, wherein the molecular nitricoxide is present at at least about 0.5% by weight of the compositionwithout nitric oxide.
 38. The method of claim 29, wherein the molecularnitric oxide is present within the composition as a gas.
 39. The methodof claim 29, wherein the molecular nitric oxide is bound by hydrogenbonds or van der Waals forces to the phosphatidylcholine.